Toronto Sees Decline in Homeless Encampments

Toronto has reported a substantial decrease in the number of homeless encampments across the city. However, advocates for unhoused individuals caution that this decline doesn't necessarily signify a reduction in overall homelessness.

Encampment Numbers Drop Significantly

According to municipal data, encampments on city properties decreased from 283 in March 2025 to 84 as of March 15, 2026. This reduction is particularly noticeable in parks where coordinated efforts to address homelessness have been implemented.

City Attributes Decline to Outreach and Support

Gord Tanner, general manager of Toronto Shelter and Support Services, attributes the decrease to increased outreach efforts, a reduction in refugee claimants needing immediate shelter, and more staff assisting individuals in transitioning out of encampments. The city housed approximately 4,700 people from the shelter system and 370 from the streets in 2025.

Advocates Express Concerns About 'Hidden' Homelessness

Despite the decline in visible encampments, advocates argue that many unhoused individuals are now living in less conspicuous locations. Diana Chan McNally, a community worker, emphasizes that the data doesn’t reflect a true decline in homelessness, as people are now sleeping rough without tents.

Shift to Less Visible Locations

Sarah Ovens, a case manager at All Saints Church Community Centre, notes that large encampments during the pandemic were a response to overcrowded shelters. Recent city efforts to reduce encampment size have led to individuals seeking shelter in stairwells, parking garages, transit systems, or secluded areas like ravines.

Conflicting Data on Overall Homelessness

The city’s latest Street Needs Assessment report suggests an overall drop in homelessness numbers between October 2024 and October 2025. However, shelter system data indicates that an average of 50 people were turned away nightly in March, with 8,287 individuals staying in shelters on a recent Tuesday night. Over the past three months, 10,569 people were classified as actively homeless in Toronto.

Advocates continue to call for comprehensive solutions to address the root causes of homelessness and ensure long-term stability for those in need, emphasizing the importance of tracking placements into permanent, safe, and affordable housing.